As a Director General of Diversity, Inclusion and Employment Equity within Department of National Defence, you will lead strategic initiatives that foster an inclusive, equitable workplace where all employees can thrive. This executive-level position is responsible for developing and implementing policies, programs, and frameworks that promote diversity across the organization, ensure equitable employment practices, and support the integration of underrepresented groups within the DND civilian workforce and the Canadian Armed Forces. You will provide senior leadership on human resources matters, advise senior management on systemic barriers and best practices, and champion cultural change across the department.
In this role, you will oversee a team of professionals dedicated to employment equity, diversity strategies, and inclusion initiatives. Your responsibilities include conducting workplace assessments, designing targeted recruitment and retention programs, monitoring compliance with federal employment equity legislation, and developing metrics to measure progress. You will collaborate with stakeholders at all organizational levels, engage with external partners including community organizations and other government departments, and report on key performance indicators to senior leadership. This position requires strategic thinking, change management expertise, and a deep commitment to creating a workplace culture that values diversity and respects all employees.
You will work in a dynamic, complex environment where your decisions directly impact organizational culture and employee experiences. The role involves significant interaction with senior executives, human resources professionals, and employee representatives. You may be based in Ottawa or other major centres where DND operations are located, with opportunities to engage with diverse teams across Canada and internationally. This position is critical to DND's mission to build a strong, representative, and inclusive defence organization.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver diversity, inclusion and employment equity services to managers and employees, Advise on HR policies, procedures, and best practices, Process HR transactions and maintain accurate records, Support organizational HR initiatives and programs
Required Skills
HR policy interpretation, Interpersonal skills, Staffing and classification, Conflict resolution, Labour relations knowledge, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To qualify for this Director General position, you typically need a university degree in human resources management, business administration, public administration, sociology, or a related field. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree in Human Resources, Public Administration, or Business Administration. Professional certifications such as Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP), Certified Diversity and Inclusion Professional (CDIP), or equivalent credentials are highly valued. You should demonstrate extensive knowledge of Canadian employment equity legislation, human rights law, and federal public service policies. Advanced training in change management, organizational development, strategic planning, and data analysis is essential. Throughout your career, you will have opportunities to participate in executive development programs, senior leadership courses, and specialized training in emerging diversity and inclusion practices. DND and the Public Service Commission offer continuous professional development to support your growth in executive roles and keep you current with evolving workplace equity standards.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director General position typically occurs through a competitive staffing process managed by the Public Service Commission. Most candidates have progressed through the federal public service, beginning in junior or intermediate human resources roles and advancing through positions of increasing responsibility such as Advisor, Manager, or Director levels. You may enter the competition pool through an open competitive process or through internal departmental processes if you are already a DND employee. Lateral moves from other federal departments with equivalent executive experience in human resources, diversity, or inclusion are common pathways. Some candidates transition from provincial or territorial government positions, or from private sector human resources leadership roles, particularly those with demonstrated expertise in equity and inclusion. Before reaching the Director General level, you would typically have completed assignments in progressively senior positions, built a track record of successful program delivery, and demonstrated the strategic leadership capabilities required at this executive level. Succession planning and talent management initiatives within DND may also identify promising candidates for development and mentorship toward this role.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work arrangements at the Director General level are limited due to the executive and strategic nature of the position, which typically requires full-time commitment to senior leadership responsibilities. However, flexible work arrangements such as modified work schedules may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis to support work-life balance. Remote work options have expanded across the federal public service; depending on operational requirements and departmental policies, you may have flexibility to work from home for portions of the week, particularly for focused strategic work and meetings that do not require in-person collaboration. DND supports the federal government's commitment to flexible work arrangements for employees at all levels. The specific flexibility available in this role will depend on organizational needs, the location of your position, and agreements with your manager. As a senior leader, your primary focus will be on fulfilling executive responsibilities and leading your team effectively, with any flexible arrangements designed to support productivity and employee well-being while maintaining service delivery.
